22 Pieces of Advice I Wish I Knew When I Was 22

Isn’t it funny how you can look back at a time in your life that was full of so much change and seemingly huge decisions, and realize that everything turns out okay?

There are so many things I wish I could go back and tell myself when I was 22 and here are a few of them:

You don’t have to know what your entire life is going to look like - in fact it’s better if you don’t.

The quote, “Take it one step at a time” are some of the most valuable words you could learn. Put them into practice.

Be constantly learning. Put down your phone and read a book or schedule times to talk to people who can teach you and challenge you.

Don’t be paralyzed by criticism. Criticism is soooo good and necessary! Learn to desire it.

Invest time into learning about yourself.

Try out different hobbies or passions. Not everything has to be a good fit, figure out what brings you joy and fit it into your schedule!

Turn your eyes outward. Instead of focusing so much on your imperfections, spend that time focusing on the good you see in others and say it.

Your first job doesn’t have to be your forever job. Neither does your second, fifth, tenth, you get the point!

It is so important to find and invest in moments and experiences that are outside of your comfort zone. This is where you will grow the most.

Time goes by so quickly, don’t wish away the season you’re in.

Learn to enjoy pivots! There is a quote by Maya Angelou that says, “Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.” This is so true! As you grow and change, oftentimes so will your passions, your business, and what you enjoy doing. Once you know yourself better, make the necessary changes!

Take a few risks. Whether in business, travel, or anything else - you’re young and resourceful and now is a great time to take a few leaps.

Pursue gratitude.

Dream big and dream often. Dream for yourself, dream about how you can impact others, and dream about how you can positively impact the world.

Surround yourself with people who inspire you, love you, and challenge you. It’s true when they say you become like the five people you spend the most time with!

Listen and ask questions. Everyone loves to share about the things they are passionate about and what has made them into the person they are today. Ask big questions, ask little questions, ask anything at all and you will be amazed at the depth of conversation you are able to get to with people. Which is so much better than another conversation about the weather :)

Nobody has life all figured out, so don’t expect yourself to!

Love big. You will be hurt, you will experience embarrassment, you will have days when you are especially insecure. Love big anyways.

Comparison really is the thief of joy. It is also the thief of productivity, self-confidence, and so much else. Figure out what triggers your comparison and take the steps you need in order to battle it. Celebrate others and celebrate who you are!

That dog you’re too poor to get? It will end up being the greatest investment you make.

Move your body! Figure out what kind of exercise you love and incorporate that into your schedule. Whether you enjoy a 15 minute walk at your lunch break or waking up at 5 AM for a bootcamp, find your own thing!

You will have good days and you will have bad days. Learn to fully embrace and soak up the good days and ride the waves of the bad days.

I’m sure there are so many more things I would have wanted to know when I was 22, but now I want to hear from you! What pieces of advice would you add in?